Anxiety/Depression Specialist

Anxiety and depression can cause serious symptoms and take a toll on the overall quality of life. Chris Aussems, NMD, and Krisel Nagallo, ND, at Phoenix Anti-Aging Clinic are committed to helping patients from throughout the Phoenix, Arizona, region the treatment and care they need to manage anxiety and depression without turning to long-term use of potentially harmful medications. To find the proper treatment options for you, call the office or schedule an appointment online.

Anxiety and Depression Q & A

What is chronic depression?

Chronic depression is a medical condition that causes persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and despair, even without a specific, definable cause or reason such as a death or other loss. Also called clinical depression, the condition occurs as a result of an imbalance in brain chemicals called neurotransmitters that help regulate mood, among other functions.

What is chronic anxiety?

Chronic anxiety is a condition that causes feelings of worry, panic, and fear, which are out of proportion to any underlying cause. Chronic depression and chronic anxiety often occur together.

What symptoms are associated with chronic depression and anxiety?

Chronic depression and anxiety are associated with issues like:

Changes in appetite

Sleep problems

Problems focusing or concentrating

Increased risk for illnesses and diseases

Chronic headaches

Chronic pain

Gastrointestinal problems

Increased risk of alcohol or drug abuse

Increased risk of suicide

How are depression and anxiety diagnosed?

Both depression and anxiety are diagnosed using specific criteria developed to differentiate these conditions from other issues that may cause similar symptoms. Dr. Aussems and Dr. Nagallo can administer a physical exam and lab tests to help rule out other conditions and determine if any issues like hormonal imbalances or nutritional deficiencies are contributing to the disorders. Because depression can run in families, a family medical history is also important.

How are depression and anxiety treated?

Depression and anxiety require ongoing management to ensure treatment remains optimized. Naturopathic approaches to care rely on treatment options designed to tap into the body’s ability to heal and may include:

Dietary changes to ensure the body is receiving the nutrients it needs to stay healthy